Rory McIlroy Mania Boosts Open Championship Attendance
This summer’s Open Championship at Royal Portrush is experiencing a surge in excitement thanks to Rory McIlroy, with a record crowd of 278,000 fans anticipated at the Dunluce links.
Record Ticket Sales After Masters Win
The opportunity to watch the recent Masters champion perform in his hometown has undoubtedly contributed to unprecedented ticket sales for the event, scheduled from July 17-20, surpassing sales outside St Andrews.
Anticipation Surrounding McIlroy’s Home Performance
McIlroy’s exciting Masters triumph just ten days ago has stirred considerable anticipation about what milestones the 35-year-old might reach after breaking his major championship “curse.”
McIlroy’s Unfinished Business at Royal Portrush
After missing the cut in 2019, when the championship was last hosted in his home country, McIlroy will certainly have “unfinished business” at Royal Portrush, according to Mark Darbon, R&A’s chief executive.
R&A Highlights the McIlroy Effect on Attendance
Darbon, appointed last summer, expressed excitement for the Open’s return, noting that McIlroy’s victory adds an extra touch, contributing to what promises to be an incredible summer of golf. He acknowledged the impact of McIlroy on ticket sales, stating that the event is “essentially sold out,” with 1.1 million applications received.
Record Attendance and Economic Impact
This summer’s Open is set to become the largest championship ever held outside St Andrews, eclipsing the previous record at Royal Portrush with 237,750 attendees during the 148th Open won by Shane Lowry. The event is expected to generate £213 million for the region, marking the largest sporting event ever in Northern Ireland.
Future of the Open Championship and Turnberry
Darbon mentioned the R&A’s ambition to take the Open beyond the UK, particularly eyeing Portmarnock in Dublin, while also expressing a desire for Turnberry’s return to the Open rotation. However, he recognized challenges related to infrastructure, which currently complicate its inclusion.
